World Cat 320 EC//Princecraft 22//Jeanneau NC9//17 Reviews
Chaparral launches into the entry-level market with the all-new-for-2012 H2O bowrider models. The four-boat lineup of 18- and 19-footers is designed to appeal to families who are just getting into boating and want to explore the on-water possibilities in well-built, properly powered platforms. The sterndrive 19 Sport model is powerful enough for tow sports and large enough for comfortable day cruising with friends and family aboard.
The Bayliner 197 SD has a top speed of 39.1 mph, a cruise speed of 27.1 and range of 154 miles at cruise. She can be powered with engines ranging from 135-hp
We found so much to talk about on the MJM 40z that we had a decision to make. Talk about fewer things or make two videos. We couldn't see anything that was average enough to not discuss so two videos it is. Today, we go over the large number of
One thing that you can say about the Volvo Penta D4 is it's versatile. It comes in power ranging from 225 to 300-hp, it can be fitted to either a DPH sterndrive, IPS 350 or 400 pods, or a straight shaft inboard. It's also easy to maintain as the component parts are so easily identified. Since we've tested and reviewed this little powerhouse its popularity has continued to grow according to the folks at
Mothers always tell their kids that it is "rude to stare" but when it comes to the Pershing line of boats we can never avoid it. Frankly, we -- along with most of the rest of the nautical world -- view the Pershing design concept with the awe usually reserved for a Donatello sculpture. Few boats on the planet have quite the level of "dock appeal" as does the Pershing line with its signature metallic silver topsides. (Other colors are available). The new Pershing 74 is an evolution of the old 72, and all of the graceful, compelling lines have been kept. But questions always arise in our mind when seeing something so aesthetically beautiful: How functional is she? Is she all show and no go? She looks good at the dock, but can you take her offshore?
Originally built as work boats capable of carrying a heavy load of nets or traps across shallow, protected coastal waters, traditional skiff designs share characteristics that include a flat or nearly flat bottom with a broad beam for the boat’s length, and a blunt bow. Recreational anglers find those same features favorable for negotiating shallows while fishing protected waters where there is not the need for a traditional vee’d hull to tackle rough water on a regular basis. The skiff category has become popular as interest in in-shore light tackle saltwater fishing has grown. The Pro 17 Skiff CC is one of three skiff configurations Mako offers in 2012, which include a 17 tiller model, a 16 foot center console and an 18 foot Light Tackle version, with a new, shallow-running hull design.
The Tiara 4300 was one of the first boats launched in production with the IPS600 drive system a number of years ago and became one of Tiara's most popular models. After a few years of owner feedback the Holland, Michigan builder decided to improve on the boat where it needed it -- by putting more room and utility in the stern. Now the 4500 can seat 8 people on deck for dinner, which can be grilled on a BBQ in the transom bustle, and the boat has loads more storage aft. And other things were changed, too.
If Mercedes can make an affordable version of their cars, then Tigé can make an affordable version of their boats. That's the mindset behind the R20, but how did they manage to pull it off? Certainly not by compromising on performance. We found this to be a great handling boat. How about cutting back on the build? We found
The 185 Sport has many of the styling attributes of her bigger sisters, such as
When you hang around the offices of BoatTEST.com long enough you start to get a knee-jerk reaction to the phrase “fish and family friendly.” It’s just too easy to throw a couple of rod holders on, toss in a berth or two, and send the whole thing off to marketing for polishing. Most often, we just see right through the hype, but in the case of the World Cat 320 EC, it’s evident that this is a company that really gets it, and here is where it shows. Far from just throwing the pieces of the pie together and serving, this boat even adds a touch of luxury. And just wait till you see the list of standards.
The Yamaha FX HO series incorporates two watercrafts, the FX HO and the FX Cruiser HO which are identical machines except for some cosmetic and feature differences. We have tested every evolution each year and have found the performance to be consistent and reliable. Usually conservative on looks, the latest versions have a more aggressive appearance. The top deck utilizes a premium automotive paint, the finish is world class.
Cuddys are designed for a focused audience of boaters who ask for little more than speed, performance, comfort – and sports car looks! These enthusiasts want to go fast and look cool first and foremost. Issues such as ski/wakeboard storage and Bimini tops usually arise later, if it all. Where once nearly all sportboats were cuddys, today fewer than 10% of the new sportboats sold are of that type. But they might be having a Renaissance!
If you would like to get out on the water with your family in a new, seaworthy cruising boat, but the current economy has you thinking it's not a good idea -- then let us introduce you to Jeanneau's "New Concept" 9. In a nutshell, the new concept is to pack most of the utility of a larger cruiser into a smaller space by converting aspects of the boat into dual use. Secondly, Jeanneau eliminates expensive, unnecessary details and amenities -- without reducing the boat's sea-keeping abilities -- but keeps her looking up-market at the same time. The result is a stylish coastal cruising boat for a family of four to six that is affordable. The NC 9 is truly a New Concept.
Because the Ventura 220 WS is low to the water and has a dropped deck at the bow, she can be classified as a deckboat, but because of the seating arrangement, helm, and aluminum construction, she also has elements of a pontoon boat -- perhaps capturing the best aspects of both.
Cobia, manufactured by Maverick Boat Company, is an old name in fishing boats and its boats have never looked better. The 21 Bay has had a major redesign on deck for 2012, making her even more competitive with other boats in this class. With a 15-degree deadrise at the transom she will scoot and at 2,050 lbs. (931 kgs.)
It is not often that a builder gives the consumer an option of single or twin engine power engine installations in a boat where the engines are placed inboard. But that is the case with the Sea-Doo 210 Challenger series. Sea-Doo offers this boat with either a supercharged 1.5L engine, or twin naturally aspirated engines. The builder has worked hard to maximize interior space. The 210 Challenger series (it comes in several models) makes a good, all-around water vehicle for someone with a family.
Volvo Penta has stepped up and created an outdrive that solves nearly all of the problems that plague the average boater. Things like corrosion, sand in the cooling system, blown out exhaust bellows, and the like. It's a bit more expensive than
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Before laying up your boat for the winter, protect your snaps and zippers. |
If there is something that all boaters can relate to, it's corrosion. So how about when you go to uncover the boat and you can’t get the snap to unsnap, or you can’t get the zippers to move? (#*?@!!) The team at Shurhold has a simple and effective product that can prevent this from happening and keep your language civil. Snap-Stick is designed to keep your snaps and zippers from corroding and also act as a lubricant. Use it when laying up your boat to protect gear all winter. Watch a video on the Snap-Stick to see it in action....
You can get all the info on the product here.
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BoatTEST.com's Smart Boating Course:
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It's time to become the smartest boater in the marina. Re-learn what you've forgotten, learn what you never knew before. This course takes you up to the professional level with all-video lessons. |
With more content than any other boating course, the BoatTEST.com Smart Boating course makes a perfect gift for the boater in your life. Perhaps that is why the NMMA started promoting the course after just one look. It's the most complete boating course available...period. Order your 4-disc DVD box set today and get it in time for the holidays. Fits perfectly in a stocking. We cannot guarantee the course
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Towing your boat is a big responsibility. Make sure you follow the proper steps and guidelines when preparing your boat for transport. |
This week Capt. Steve goes over six lessons and guidelines on tips to safely trailer your boat. These are basic procedures which all recreational boaters should be aware of. The videos presented this week are part of BoatTEST.com’s USCG-approved Boating Course. Watch these video boating lessons every week on BoatTEST.com.
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First Place
"Waterskiing at the 1000 Islands!"
- M. Mcnall
Second Place
“The Smith's are always coming up with creative ways to get the bugs and birds out of their Christmas trees!” - D. Flynn
Honorable Mention
“Ever since he got promoted to ‘branch’ manager, he has loads of free time.”
- M. Burton
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